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Insider reveals why Shane Wright fell to 4th overall, and it makes sense

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Josh tupper
July 17, 2022 (10:39)

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Shane Wright was considered to be the top available prospect in this year's draft from the moment he was granted it exceptional status in the Ontario Hockey League. All betting websites had him listed as the consensus number one pick. All scouting agencies had him as the clear cut number one, but apparently at least 3 NHL teams didn't.

The Montreal Canadiens had the 1st overall pick in the 2022 draft and most people thought Wright was the guaranteed pick, despite the chatter of Juraj Slafkovsky possibly having unseated him. The Habs were desperately in need of a franchise center, so it seemed like the perfect fit.

Unfortunately for Wright the Canadiens went with Slafkovsky. It was then assumed he'd fallen into the lap of the Devils, who instead chose Simon Nemec. Even the Coyotes passed in Wright, selecting Logan Cooley. Leaving Wright to be selected by the Seattle Kraken 4th overall.

After being selected 4th, Wright stared down the Canadiens draft table leaving many people to wonder if it was his attitude that caused the drop to 4th.

Elliotte Friedman & Chris Peters confirm Shane Wright's attitude was the primary reason he fell on draft night. They also mentioned that many teams questioned Wright's "work ethic" at the scouting combine, citing some believe he may not have the same passion NHL scouts look for.

Teams pushed Wright to answer why he chose not to play overseas during the pandemic, as they believe this contributed to the lack of development in his draft year.